Species Account: This native of Puerto Rico has been introduced at several localities in Dade County via pet trade escapees, and in recent years has spread widely and is now frequently seen in urban, suburban, and agricultural situations. Males may reach 19 cm (7.5 in) in length and have dark-bordered dewlaps that range in color from olive-green to yellow or orange. Males typically have a wavy tail crest, and the vertebral and nape crests can be erected by muscular contraction. The dorsal color ranges from olive-tan to almost black, with lighter colored anoles exhibiting dark bars or blotches on the trunk and tail. This somewhat arboreal species is usually seen close to the ground, often perching head downward, on tree trunks, shrubs, fenceposts, building walls, brush piles, and rock piles. When frightened, it usually climbs upward, but it may seek refuge in ground debris. It feeds on insects, blossoms, and fruit (Bartlett 1995a, Bartlett and Bartlett 1999). It competes for structural habitat with the brown anole (Anolis sagrei), and in areas of sympatry, crested anoles reduce the perch height of brown anoles (Salzburg 1984). Brach (1977) speculated that crested anoles may reduce brown anole populations as they expand their range.

Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its 2017 Agency Regulatory Plan.

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